SAN MARCOS, Texas— On Tuesday, Oct. 14, the Hays County Commissioners Court voted to approve changes to the list of voting locations for the Nov. 4, 2025, General Election to meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility standards. “Many of the issues cited include slopes of parking lots that exceed the maximum requirements, and changes in foundation levels that cause barriers to voters with disabilities,” said Hays County Elections Administrator Jennifer Doinoff. “Additionally, pathways to the voting location from the public right-of-way had compliance issues that couldn’t be overcome before early voting started.” The changes to the list of voting locations are as follows: · Sunfield Station has been relocated to Holiday Inn Express (next door) · Dripping Springs Learning Center has been relocated to Patriot’s Hall Wellness Center · Driftwood Community Center was closed “It’s important to comply with ADA standards to ensure that voters with disabilities have every opportunity to vote in-person independently, like all other voters,” Doinoff said. “Hays County Elections is dedicated to finding locations that are fully and equally accessible for all voters. Our team will work with the affected locations to make permanent remedies, so that we can use them for future elections.” Early voting began on October 20 and runs through October 31. For more information, visit https://www.hayscountytx.gov/elections.

SAN MARCOS, Texas – The office of Hays County Criminal District Attorney Kelly Higgins announced Friday, Oct. 17, that 53-year-old Andrew Palmore, formerly of Kyle, Texas, was found guilty of continuous sexual abuse of children this week by a Hays County jury and sentenced on Oct. 16, 2025 by that same jury to life in prison, the maximum punishment allowed by law for the offense of continuous sexual abuse of children. There is no possibility of parole. In February of 2022, the Kyle Police Department began investigating Palmore, a former teacher at Blanco Vista Elementary School, after an outcry of child sexual abuse. The minor child who outcried was not a student at Blanco Vista Elementary. Throughout the course of the investigation, Det. Pedro Carrasco Jr. uncovered evidence of a previous investigation regarding another child by the San Marcos Police Department and interviewed the defendant. He admitted to sexually abusing three children. Palmore also revealed that one of the victims was part of the San Marcos Police Department investigation. The investigation also led to the discovery of additional elementary-aged children who claimed that Palmore sexually abused them, including former students of the defendant at Casey Elementary School in Austin, Texas, during the 2000s. During the trial, the jury heard testimony from six different children whom Palmore abused, as well as testimony from two adult women who were victims of the defendant during his time at Casey Elementary. It was apparent from the testimony of the witnesses that Palmore used his position as a teacher to gain access to an untold number of children and to garner the trust of the community and the parents, said Higgins. It is impossible to know the true extent of Palmore’s sexual abuse, which spanned more than two decades, he added. "This case highlights the importance of collaboration between law enforcement, prosecutors, and the community in ensuring justice is served," said Dr. Jeff Barnett, Kyle Police Chief. "Our department remains committed to protecting children, preventing abuse and holding offenders fully accountable to the fullest extent of the law." Assistant District Attorneys Daniella Garcia and Elizabeth Schmidt prosecuted this case. “Children are the most vulnerable members of our society, and today, the children of Hays County have been made safer by ensuring a dangerous sexual predator will never have access to another child again. Bringing this predator to justice was truly a team and community effort,” Schmidt said. “We’d like to thank Det. Carrasco for his hard work, thoroughly investigating this case that led to the discovery of victims that spanned the defendant’s 20-year career as a teacher, the brave survivors who stood up to their offender, the victim assistant coordinator who demonstrated extraordinary powers in managing to keep everything on track and all of the witnesses who testified in the trial. We also appreciate the time and attention of the jurors who rendered justice. We hope the victims find some measure of reassurance knowing that they are safer, and they have the community’s support.”

To view the original notice, click here FILED HAYS COUNTY, TEXAS at 8:25 o'clock AM Oct 20 2025

Residents of the Cypress Creek and Blanco River watersheds are invited to the educational program WIMBERLEY, Texas – The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, Texas Water Resources Institute, TWRI, Hays County and the Texas Riparian Association will host a free Texas Riparian and Stream Ecosystem Education Program on Oct. 28 in Wimberley. The program, designed for area residents interested in land and water stewardship in the Cypress Creek and Blanco River watersheds, will run from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The morning session will take place at the Wimberley Community Center, 14068 Ranch Road 12. The afternoon session will include a walk and presentations along Cypress Creek. “Riparian education workshops motivate informed landowners and residents to adopt and support practices to manage riparian and stream ecosystems better,” said Alexander Neal, TWRI program specialist, College Station. “Not only are water quality and quantity directly benefited by the proper management, protection and restoration of these critical areas, but also enhanced are the soundness of stream banks, fish communities and aquatic habitats, just to name a few.” Focus on Cypress Creek Water quality improvement efforts by stakeholders in the Cypress Creek and Blanco River watersheds are the focus. “Stakeholders recognizing successful water quality improvement requires implementing a variety of management strategies,” said Jonas Rosenthal, Hays County watershed coordinator, San Marcos. “The riparian and stream workshop is an educational event supporting this effort.” Neal said the workshop will outline the nature and function of stream and riparian zones as well as the benefits and economic impacts of properly functioning riparian systems. “Riparian areas – the green vegetated land areas adjacent to the bank of a stream, creek, bayou, river or lake – are unique and important ecosystems that provide many benefits, including habitat and forage,” Neal said. “The goal of the workshop is for participants to understand better riparian and watershed processes, the benefits of healthy riparian areas and what resources are available to prevent degradation while improving water quality.” About the workshop Workshop presentations will be given by representatives of TWRI, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, AgriLife Extension, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the Texas A&M Forest Service and the Texas Riparian Association. The workshop is free thanks to program funding provided through a Clean Water Act Section 319(h) nonpoint source grant from the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. CEUs offered The workshop will offer the following continuing education units: · Three for Texas Department of Agriculture pesticide license holders — two general and one integrated pest management. · Foresters and professional loggers can receive six hours from the Texas Forestry Association, six and a half hours from the Society of American Foresters, and eight hours from the International Society of Arboriculture. · Seven hours from the Texas Floodplain Management Association. · Seven hours for certified crop advisers. · Six hours for Texas Nutrient Management Planning specialists. · The program may also be used for continuing education units for professional engineers and architects.  The riparian education program is managed by TWRI, a Texas A&M AgriLife Research unit that combines expertise across The Texas A&M University System. For more information, contact Neal or visit texasriparian.org or facebook.com/TexasRiparianAssociation.

To view the original notice, click here FILED HAYS COUNTY, TEXAS at 8:15 o'clock AM.

SAN MARCOS , Texas – The Office of Hays County Criminal District Attorney Kelly Higgins announced today that 44-year-old Cameron Moore, formerly of Bexar County, Texas, was convicted of burglary of a habitation with felonious intent, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, tampering with a witness and endangering a child by Hays County District Court Judge Sherri Tibbe on September 19, 2025. Judge Tibbe assessed a sentence of life in prison.  In May of 2019, Moore was prosecuted for violence against the same victim for offenses of aggravated kidnapping, attempted capital murder, stalking, and violation of a protective order. Evidence was presented to a Hays County jury in the 2019 trial that showed that Moore had installed a GPS device on the victim’s vehicle and followed her to the police station, where he proceeded to strangle her in the parking lot. He had a zip tie and a pocketknife on his person. Moore had also stalked the victim multiple times and continuously abused her throughout the course of their eight-year relationship. The jury in that trial returned a verdict convicting Moore of lesser-included offenses and assessed a 10-year sentence. While incarcerated following the 2019 conviction, Moore made ongoing threats of violence against another victim. The state had concerns that Moore would continue to pose a threat to the community generally and to the victims specifically. He was prosecuted for the additional offenses to ensure the protection of the community. Assistant District Attorneys Katie Arnold and Courtney Hanson prosecuted this case. “We’d like to thank the survivor in this case. Without her ongoing determination and bravery, we would not be able to ensure that such a violent criminal was behind bars. It’s been a long journey for her, and we’re pleased that she will be safe from him, as well as any other women that cross his path,” said Arnold. # # #

SAN MARCOS, Texas – Following a final public hearing on Tuesday, Sept. 16, the Hays County Commissioners Court voted, 4-1, to adopt a tax rate of $.3999 per $100 valuation and a balanced budget for fiscal year 2026. In the FY26 budget, funds were approved at a total of $373,849,226, comprising operating funds of $248,226,263, debt funds of $55,300,195, and construction funds of $70,322,768. The FY26 budget focuses on key initiatives to address capital infrastructure needs, including road improvements and county facilities, as well as funding to continue essential judicial services. Additionally, it allocates funds to partner with local municipalities and non-profits for enhanced animal welfare services. The budget is expected to raise more revenue from property taxes than last year’s budget by $16.9 million, representing an 11.27% increase. The property tax revenue to be raised from new property added to the tax roll this year is $6.9 million. According to Vickie Dorsett, Hays County Budget Officer, the average home value is $460,169, representing an annual property tax increase of $225.87 for the Hays County tax portion only. “Property taxes are the primary source of revenue for counties in Texas, and our Commissioners Court is dedicated to maintaining a low tax rate while balancing the growing infrastructure needs and providing superior services to the citizens of Hays County,” Dorsett said. One of the key indicators of the tax rate is population, she said. Since 2010, the population in Hays County has grown by 93% while the tax rate has consistently decreased during that period. Since 2000, the population has increased by 210%. These are the drivers for the need for additional services. “While the tax rate has gone down consistently over the years, the recent [tax rate] increases, are directly attributed to the addition of services the County is now providing – additional Judicial Services related to pre-trial services, additional magistration, the Public Defender’s Office, animal welfare services and more – which alone account for a $.0125 increase on the tax rate,” Dorsett said. “The judicial aspect of this is essential in reducing recidivism in Hays County. These are programs for which we haven’t had to tax citizens in the past due to available American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds.” “This budget reflects both the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly growing county,” said Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra. “We are delivering essential services — from judicial and public safety programs to public infrastructure and mental health support — while keeping the tax rate among the lowest in the region. Our responsibility is to balance fiscal accountability with the needs of our community, and I believe this budget strikes that balance for the people of Hays County.” Following the budget hearing, the court also voted unanimously, 5-0, to approve the FY26 salaries and allowances for elected officials. For more information or to view budget documents, visit www.hayscountytx.gov/budget-office.

KYLE, Texas – The Hays County Office of Emergency Services (OES), in partnership with the City of Kyle, hosted the 8th Annual Emergency Preparedness Fair on Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025, at La Verde Park. Hundreds of residents joined local first responders, volunteers, and community partners. “The 8th Annual Preparedness Fair was a tremendous success thanks to the incredible engagement from our community and our dedicated partners,” said Hays County OES Director Mike Jones. “Together, we were able to educate and empower residents with the knowledge and resources they need to be prepared for any disaster.” The fair featured hands-on safety demonstrations, preparedness resources, interactive exhibits and live music entertainment. Guests explored emergency vehicles, participated in CPR and fire extinguisher training and learned how to create personalized emergency go-kits. A highlight of the day was the 3rd Annual Top Dawg Chili Cook-Off. Phillip Gilreath from Arkansas was the First Place Winner, Kent Cawley was second place (by 1 point), and Emergency Service District (ESD) 3 South Hays Fire was third place. They retained the Top Dawg traveling trophy between Hays County ESDs and also won the People’s Choice Award. Proceeds from the cook-off benefit the firefighters of Hays County, helping fund firefighter training and replace equipment lost during wildfire responses. The event was powered by community support, with 67 CERT members volunteering and 17 non-CERT volunteer partners participating, totaling 668.7 volunteer hours. Families enjoyed live performances by Two Tons of Steel and the Cody Sparks Band, participated in raffles and a silent auction, and engaged directly with local emergency personnel. The fair blended entertainment with education, ensuring attendees left better prepared for emergencies of all kinds. “Building resilience starts with awareness, and this event showed the strength of our community when we come together,” Jones added. For more information on preparedness resources and upcoming events, visit https://www.haysinformed.com .

SAN MARCOS, Texas – The Hays County community came together on Saturday, Sept. 6, for the Health Department’s inaugural Suicide Awareness Walk & Resource Fair: Together for Tomorrow. Approximately 88 participants joined to walk, connect and stand together for suicide prevention and mental health awareness. The event began with heartfelt opening words from Hays County Health Department Behavioral Health Coordinator Izzy Vigil, who reminded the community of the reason for their gathering and helped set the tone for a day of connection, healing, and hope. Following Vigil, David James of the Peyton Heart Project shared the story of his son Peyton and the mission to end the stigma surrounding suicide and bullying. His testimony deepened the meaning of the day and grounded participants in the importance of this work. Despite the rain, spirits remained high. The community embraced the weather and set off together on the 1-mile walk through San Marcos Plaza Park, guided by balloons in shades of teal and purple, the symbolic colors of suicide awareness. Along the way, community members forged new connections, shared stories and reminded one another of the importance of showing up and standing together. To keep energy levels up, participants were also provided with granola bars, cold water and goodie bags, generously donated by community partners, adding another touch of care and support to the day. The resource fair was a highlight of the event, as vendors and supporters provided attendees with valuable resources on mental health and suicide prevention, while also fostering meaningful connections. Their presence brought a strong sense of togetherness to the day. The Health Department is grateful to the following partners for sharing their time, knowledge, and care with the community: Hill Country MHDD Centers Greater San Marcos Youth Council Hays-Caldwell Women’s Center (HCWC) Community Action, Inc. of Central Texas Austin Oaks Branches in San Marcos Prevention and Research in Suicide Mechanisms (PRISM) Lab DJ X-Ray (Gabriel Vasquez) “The inaugural event was a true success,” said Health Department Director Matthew Gonzales. “It brought nearly 90 people together in solidarity, opened conversations about mental health and connected individuals with the resources they need. The turnout demonstrated the strength of our community and its commitment to fostering awareness, breaking down stigma and supporting one another. “We are deeply grateful to everyone who attended, volunteered, or partnered with us to make this event possible. Together for tomorrow is more than a theme. It is a commitment we share as a community to keep showing up, raising awareness and supporting healing and hope.” ###